The holiday season will officially begin in downtown Kansas City, Kansas, on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025. Mayor Tyrone Garner will join the Unified Government (UG). He will also join the KCK Downtown Shareholders. They will host the Mayor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Festival at Memorial Hall, 600 N. 7th St. Trafficway. The event runs from 4 to 7 p.m. and is free and open to the public.
This year’s festival will serve as both a community celebration and a farewell from Mayor Garner, who will host his final tree lighting after four years of leading the beloved holiday tradition.
“This event has always been about bringing people together,” said Mayor Garner. “It’s been my greatest honor to share in the magic of the season with our residents year after year, and I look forward to one last unforgettable evening with all of you.”
Festival Highlights Include:
On the main stage, guests will enjoy performances by singer-songwriter Chris Stewart and local favorite Stranded in the City.
- Live performances from local school bands, drill teams, and dance troupes
- A Battle of the Bands showcase
- Local vendors and holiday shopping opportunities
- Food trucks and seasonal treats
- Photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus
- Book giveaways, children’s activities, and games
- Face painting, holiday movies, and goody bags
- The official lighting of the city’s Christmas tree at 7 p.m.
This year’s Grand Marshal is actor Anthony Hill, a Midwest native best known for his role as Dr. Winston Ndugu on Grey’s Anatomy. He will be joined on stage by the families of Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Deputy Elijah Ming and Kansas City, Kansas, Police Officer Hunter Simoncic, both of whom lost their lives in service to the community. Their families will lead the official lighting ceremony at 7 p.m. in their honor.
Fourth Annual Gingerbread House Competition
The popular Gingerbread House Village will return, featuring creative entries from UG departments competing for bragging rights. Winners will be selected by UG Commissioners and announced during the festival. Guests are encouraged to visit and tour the Gingerbread Village on display.
A complete schedule of performances and vendors will be posted on the UG website beginning Monday, Nov. 3, at wycokck.org.
